The Colville National Forest encompasses 1.1 million acres of wilderness surrounding Metaline, Washington, situated in the northeastern corner of the state at elevations ranging from 1,600 to 7,300 feet. Tent campsites near Metaline, Washington operate primarily between late spring and early fall due to significant winter snowpack that can persist through mid-May at higher elevations. Several primitive campgrounds feature tent-only sites with varying degrees of accessibility.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Sullivan Creek Campgrounds provides direct access to Sullivan Creek with stocked trout fishing. According to Marcus K., "Sullivan lake is about 2-3 miles west and priest lake is 20+ miles to the east. If you do not have a 4wd vehicle I wouldn't recommend driving on the service road to Priest."
Wildlife observation: The campgrounds around Metaline offer substantial wildlife viewing in natural settings. Steve C. notes that Mill Pond Campground has "recently updated with paved roads and flat gravel parking pads. All facilities are extremely nice. The only downside is that all the sites are a short ways off the stream that flows past."
Cross-country skiing: Some areas near Metaline transform into winter recreation zones when camping season ends. At Frater Lake, camper B reports, "This place isn't meant for established or even disbursed camping. There are no campsites... the trails would be great for cross country skiing."
What campers like
Natural water features: Crescent Lake Campground receives consistently positive reviews for its water clarity. Andrea R. explains, "The lake was even clearer than the one on the west side, it is stocked with Rainbow trout, and it's super awesome to see where you are fishing. For being a roadside lake I was quite impressed."
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the small, secluded nature of campgrounds in this region. Becky describes Crescent Lake as "Secluded Yet Just Off the Road... The 3 sites are in full shade and are NOT on the water. Crescent Lake in the Colville National Forest is tiny and only would take 5 mins or less to paddle to the other side."
Off-grid experience: Lake Thomas Campground offers a more remote camping experience. Connie S. reports, "Such a good campground! Sorta small some are but others work well for group spots! Some spots even have trails from campground to the lake! Large range of wildlife, birds, fish, deer, moose, and we even saw bunnies!!"
What you should know
Limited site availability: The most popular tent camping locations near Metaline have very few sites. Heartworn H. notes about one location, "I tried coming here twice and both times it was not only full, but many cars circling through the loops in search of a camp. I ended up camping a little farther west, but came to spend the days here."
Access road challenges: Roads to many tent sites require appropriate vehicles. At Mountain Refuge Ranch, a private campground option, Jayme B. describes, "It's a huge private property with a lot of amenities at each site. Ours had camp chairs, table, bucket for water, fire ring, lighter. Very pretty views."
Bear safety requirements: Many campgrounds provide bear boxes, indicating the need for proper food storage. Marcus K. explains that at Sullivan Creek Campground, "Site 6... Large site that can accommodate two small travel trailers (up to 20 ft) and multiple tenting areas. Large bear box, and fire ring."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: For family camping trips, sites with basic facilities make the experience more comfortable. Regarding Mill Pond Campground, Steve C. notes, "We spent one night the week before Labor Day weekend. All the campgrounds around Sullivan Lake were nearly full and busy. We had this entire place to ourselves."
Look for multi-tent capacity: Families often need larger sites for multiple tents. At Sullivan Creek, Marcus K. describes, "This site #8 is one of the larger sites at Sullivan Creek. It's right next to the river and about 150 yards from the road. At the site: Fire Ring, and a bear box."
Plan water activities: Lakes and streams provide natural entertainment for children. Andrea R. notes about Crescent Lake, "There is a rope swing, however, the lake is not deep enough at the moment to be able to swing. People do kayak and canoe. There is no room for your trailer."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most primitive tent sites near Metaline cannot accommodate large RVs. For Crescent Lake, Andrea R. advises, "There are only three campsites, best for tents or very small campers, no your 40 foot RV will not fit.....They are not reserveable, fcfs."
Limited services: RV campers should prepare for self-contained camping. Marcus K. notes about Sullivan Creek, "Pack in and pack out! Sullivan lake is about 2-3 miles west and priest lake is 20+ miles to the east."
Alternative campsites: When tent-only areas are full, nearby locations might accommodate smaller RVs. Marcus explains, "We love this site. Close to the road and creek. Large site that can accommodate two small travel trailers (up to 20 ft) and multiple tenting areas."
